The whirring of electronics fills the air as a mother uses lego to teach children the basics of engineering.

E2 Young Engineers Harrow was set up two years ago by founder Smita Shah, 53, from Hatch End, with the help of her son Nikhit, 24, and daughter Rhea, 17.

A dyslexia teacher by trade, Mrs Shah looked for various career options with her son online, after he left college and was unable to get a job, when she stumbled upon the Young Engineers franchise.

She said: “My son has learning difficulties and after years and years of searching a job, disheartened by rejection and being taken advantage of, we decided to start something together that he could work in and with a view to take over eventually and stand on his own feet.

“At first, he found it really difficult but now he organises everything for me to run the class such as equipment logistics and helping the children build in class.

“Someone who found it difficult to talk to new people now interacts and holds his own as he promotes the business, earns a living and has now recently moved out with a view to getting his own place so that’s progress.

“The programme has not only helped his dyspraxia but his social skills.”

With the support from three instructors and a handful of voluntary helpers, the team visit schools and host birthday parties, summer camps and workshops for children in Harrow to teach them a variety of skills, including the basics of physics and engineering.

From creating mechanical drums to constructing Lego cranes, pupils are able to play while also learning how to make things work and the history behind it.

The programme also teaches social skills and helps to improve self-confidence and self-esteem with all the attendees.

Mrs Shah added: “The children have to think outside the box to make things work and they develop self-confidence and resilience as they try new things to solve the problems and challenges we give them.

“It is mind blowing how much they gain from it, by learning through play, and of course everyone loves Lego!”